Team Herald
MARGAO: Deeply concerned over the ongoing destruction of sand dunes and vegetation, a group of villagers from Cavelossim on Tuesday gave a clarion call to all the residents to venture out of their houses to protect their village for future generations.
They demanded that sarpanch Dixon Vaz to stand with the villagers or resign if he is unable to protect their interests.
Expressing their concern that a major disaster looms in Cavelossim if the destruction of sand dunes is not halted, they threatened to approach court if necessary.
The press conference in Margao was attended by Fr Eremito Rebello and others.
Paul Lobo claimed that all the beach properties in Mobor-Cavelossim have been bought by outsiders for a massive project, which he warned will lead to significant destruction of the local ecosystem.
Lobo urged, “All the villagers of Mobor-Cavelossim need to come out of their houses to protect their village, or it will be permanently destroyed.”
He noted that major destruction of sand dunes and vegetation has been reported, not only in Mobor, but also in several other areas of Cavelossim, including Bativaddo and Tamborim.
He highlighted that the destruction of sand dunes is occurring on properties purchased by outsiders.
“What is shocking is that permissions are being granted despite clear objections and evidence from the villagers,” Lobo claimed.
He remarked that Sarpanch Dixon Vaz seems to have changed, asserting that as the head of the village, he should either stand by the people or resign from his position.
Fr Eremito Rebello said that Cavelossim is ‘sitting on a bomb’.
He said, “We must remember that Cavelossim was once part of the ocean. With the destruction of many sand dunes, there is a high possibility that water may enter the village, and if that happens, everything will be lost”.
He also urged the panchayat to convene an extraordinary meeting to discuss and create a master plan for Cavelossim.
“The villagers of Cavelossim don’t want any destructive development,” Fr Rebello emphasised.
Panchayat member Rinkoo Lobo stated that despite receiving written objections, the panchayat continues to issue permissions to the parties concerned, even in eco-sensitive zones.
Joe Fernandes urged the Sarpanch to revoke licences in the interest of the village.
He warned, “We are already fighting cases against a few projects, and we will not hesitate to approach the court in these cases as well.”